Parallel Converter Stage for High Current EV Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conversion devices for recharging electric vehicle batteries are costly and bulky due to the use of expensive and large semiconductor transistors and electromagnetic coils, which are dimensioned to handle high currents like 100 A.
Innovation Solution
A conversion stage comprising multiple switching branches with semiconductor elements and diodes connected in antiparallel, allowing high current passage while reducing costs and bulk, by using parallel connections and reversible operation to switch between Boost and Buck converter modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional semiconductor transistors and electromagnetic coils are used to handle high currents (100 A), then the conversion device can deliver high output currents, but the cost and size of the device increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single high-current path into multiple parallel switching branches, each handling a portion of the total current. This segmentation allows using smaller, less expensive semiconductor elements and electromagnetic coils in each branch while collectively achieving the required 100 A output current capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple switching branches in parallel configuration, where each branch contributes to the total current output. By merging the current-carrying capabilities of multiple smaller components, the system achieves high current output without requiring a single large, expensive component
2Productivity
If traditional semiconductor transistors and electromagnetic coils are used to handle high currents (100 A), then the conversion device can deliver high output currents, but the cost of the device increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the high-current handling function across multiple parallel branches, allowing the use of smaller, more economical semiconductor elements and electromagnetic coils in each branch. This reduces the cost per component while maintaining the overall 100 A capability through parallel operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs smaller, less expensive semiconductor elements and electromagnetic coils in each switching branch that can be more easily manufactured and replaced. These smaller components are optimized for their specific current handling requirements rather than being oversized for the total system current
3Weight of stationary object
If the conversion device uses multiple switching branches with parallel connections, then the cost and size are reduced, but the device must manage complex switching operations between Boost and Buck modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the switching branches with bidirectional capability, allowing each branch to function in both Boost and Buck conversion modes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated circuits for each mode, simplifying the overall control architecture despite the parallel structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching control that can adaptively adjust which branches are active and their switching characteristics based on the required conversion mode (Boost or Buck) and load conditions. This dynamic management optimizes performance while handling the complexity of multiple branches
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables the delivery of high output currents (up to 100 A) with reduced cost and size, maintaining efficiency and flexibility between Boost and Buck conversion modes.
Implementation Method 1
each switch comprising a semiconductor element and a diode connected in antiparallel to the semiconductor element, each semiconductor element being switchable between an on state and a blocked state
Implementation Method 2
The Buck converter also comprises a capacitor connected between the two output terminals and an electromagnetic coil connected between a terminal of the capacitor and said intermediate point
Data Source
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AI summary
This electrical conversion stage (44) is suitable for being connected, on the one hand, to intermediate terminals (34, 36) of a DC voltage electrical bus, and on the other hand, to output terminals (38, 40). It comprises P switching branches, P ≥ 2, the switching branches (52A, 52B, 52C) being connected in parallel between the intermediate terminals (34, 36), each switching branch having a first (54A, 54B, 54C) and a second (56A, 56B, 56C) controllable switches connected in series and linked together by a midpoint (58A, 58B, 58C), each switch having a semiconductor switching element (84) and a diode (86) connected in antiparallel to the semiconductor element, and means (64) for controlling the switches according to a control law.It further includes a capacitor (60) connected between the two output terminals (38, 40) and, for each switching branch, an electromagnetic coil (62A, 62B, 62C) connected between one terminal of the capacitor and the midpoint of the corresponding switching branch, and the control law is selected from a first control law and a second control law, the first control law being such that the semiconductor element (84) of each first switch (54A, 54B, 54C) is always in the blocked state, and the second control law being such that the semiconductor element (84) of each second switch (56A, 56B, 56C) is always in the blocked state.